Savory & Irresistible Cheesy Zucchini Bread Without Yeast

Posted on August 3, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

Image for Garden Zucchini Cheddar Quick Bread

If you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and comforting—without the fuss of kneading or yeast—this Cheesy Zucchini Bread is your new go-to recipe. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect way to use up fresh zucchini from your garden or local market.

This recipe makes a moist, tender loaf with a crisp golden crust and a rich cheesy aroma that will have everyone gathered around the kitchen. It’s everything a zucchini quick bread should be—savory, fluffy, and impossible to stop at one slice.

Whether you’re exploring things to bake with zucchini or searching for the perfect side for soup night, this easy no-yeast bread hits all the right notes. Even better? It comes together in one bowl—no special equipment, no yeast, no rising time.

Looking for a sweet twist instead? You’ll love our Pumpkin Zucchini Bread.

Why This Cheesy Zucchini Bread Is a Must-Bake Recipe

There’s a reason this recipe has quickly become a fan favorite. It’s:

  • No yeast, no rise – You’ll go from mixing bowl to oven in minutes.
  • Savory and satisfying – Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or alongside dinner.
  • Crowd-pleasing – Cheese lovers and veggie skeptics alike will devour it.
  • Moist and fluffy – Thanks to shredded zucchini and just the right amount of cheese.
  • Versatile – Add herbs, switch up the cheese, or turn it into muffins.

This is a great alternative to sweet bread recipes and is perfect for anyone who loves quick, savory bakes—especially when you’re out of yeast!

Ingredients for Cheesy Zucchini Bread

This recipe makes one 9×5-inch loaf, perfect for slicing and sharing. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
  • ⅓ cup neutral oil (e.g. vegetable or avocado oil)
  • 1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium zucchini, squeezed)
  • 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
  • Optional: ¼ cup grated parmesan, 1 tablespoon fresh chives or parsley

Ingredient Tips:

  • Zucchini: Grate with skin on and gently squeeze out moisture to avoid sogginess.
  • Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor or mozzarella for gooey melt.
  • Milk: Any milk works here—even oat or almond milk for a dairy-light version.

Want more ways to enjoy zucchini? Try it in sweet dishes like our Banana Zucchini Muffins.

How to Make This Easy Zucchini Quick Bread

This zucchini bread recipe easy enough for any skill level. Just follow these steps:

  1. Prep your oven and pan: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
  2. Grate and squeeze zucchini: Using a box grater, grate the zucchini. Place in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and squeeze out excess liquid.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder.
  4. Add wet ingredients: In the same bowl, add eggs, milk, and oil. Stir until just combined.
  5. Fold in zucchini and cheese: Add the grated zucchini and shredded cheese (and herbs if using). Gently fold until incorporated.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Cool & slice: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool fully before slicing.

Tip: Serve warm with a pat of butter or melted garlic herb spread—just like our Garlic Herb Jalapeño Cheddar Bread.

Kitchen Tools for This Zucchini Bread Maker Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need—no bread maker or mixer required:

  • Box grater
  • Mixing bowls (one large)
  • Whisk and rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9×5-inch loaf pan
  • Cooling rack
  • Optional: parchment paper

You can also divide the batter into muffin tins or mini loaf pans to make individual portions, similar to Cottage Cheese Egg Muffins.

Tips for Making the Best Light Zucchini Bread

Get bakery-level results at home with these quick tips:

  • Don’t overmix: Mix until the batter is just combined to avoid dense texture.
  • Use fresh baking powder: It ensures the best rise in your no-yeast bread.
  • Use room-temperature ingredients: Especially eggs and milk, for better blending.
  • Avoid sogginess: Squeeze the zucchini well after grating.
  • Let it cool completely: This makes slicing cleaner and enhances flavor.

Looking for another easy savory bake? You’ll love our Garlic Parmesan Focaccia.

Zucchini Bread Variations You’ll Love

Make this cheesy loaf your own with these simple tweaks:

  • Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
  • More cheese: Try smoked gouda, swiss, or pepper jack.
  • Add protein: Mix in diced cooked bacon (non-pork alternatives only), or chopped rotisserie chicken.
  • Italian twist: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and basil.
  • Mini muffins: Bake in mini muffin tins for about 15–18 minutes for snacks on the go.

For a fall twist, try combining this recipe style with Pumpkin Zucchini Bread.

Zucchini Squash Bread: Can I Use Yellow Zucchini?

Absolutely! Yellow zucchini (aka golden zucchini) can be used the same way as green. It’s slightly sweeter and gives the bread a warmer color.

You can also mix both green and yellow zucchini for variety and visual interest—perfect for gifting or brunch tables.

Looking for other creative squash recipes? You might love our Spicy Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup.

How to Store and Freeze This Cheesy Zucchini Bread

Want to prep ahead or save leftovers? Here’s how:

  • Room temperature: Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerator: Lasts up to 5 days in an airtight container.
  • Freezer: Slice and freeze individually. Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat, microwave slices for 20–30 seconds or toast in a skillet with butter.

Creative Ways to Serve This Savory Zucchini Bread

This bread is as versatile as it is tasty. Serve it:

  • With a bowl of Creamy Mushroom Pasta
  • Alongside a salad for a light lunch
  • As a savory breakfast with scrambled eggs
  • Cut into cubes for a cheese board
  • Toasted and topped with avocado or soft cheese

Hosting brunch? Pair with Peach Bruschetta with Whipped Ricotta for a sweet-savory combo.

Things to Bake With Zucchini: Why This Recipe Tops the List

Zucchini is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. This cheesy bread is an easy way to:

  • Use up garden zucchini
  • Add hidden veggies for picky eaters
  • Create a satisfying, savory snack
  • Skip yeast without skipping flavor
  • Make quick, no-fail bread any time of year

Other must-try zucchini dishes? Our Healthy Zucchini Beef Stir Fry is a favorite weeknight dinner.

Zucchini Bread In A Jar: Can This Recipe Be Adapted?

While this bread is best baked in a loaf pan, you can bake it in individual mini jars (4–6 oz mason jars) for gifting.

  • Fill each jar halfway with batter
  • Place jars on a baking tray and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes
  • Let cool completely, then seal and refrigerate or freeze

They make adorable gifts—like a savory version of our Lemon Crumb Bars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Savory Zucchini Bread

Avoid these slip-ups for the perfect cheesy loaf:

  • Skipping the zucchini squeeze: Too much water = soggy bread
  • Overmixing the batter: Leads to a dense or gummy texture
  • Using too much cheese: It can weigh the loaf down—stick to the measurements
  • Not testing for doneness: A toothpick should come out clean
  • Cutting while hot: Wait until fully cool for clean slices

Need a dessert next? Try Chocolate Protein Fluff for a quick sweet fix.

More Zucchini Bread Recipes to Try

Hungry for more zucchini-based baking? Don’t miss these:

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Cheesy Zucchini Bread That’s Savory, Moist & Irresistible


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (10–12 slices) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cheesy Zucchini Bread is the ultimate savory quick bread made with tender zucchini, sharp cheddar, and warm seasonings. It’s moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make—no yeast needed. Ideal for summer zucchini overload or cozy snack pairings, this loaf is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner sides.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) olive oil
  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) shredded zucchini (moisture squeezed out)
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped chives or scallions (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs with milk and olive oil until smooth.
  4. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir gently until just combined.
  5. Fold in shredded zucchini and cheddar cheese until incorporated. Do not overmix.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Optionally sprinkle with extra cheese or chives.
  7. Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and top is golden brown.
  8. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

  • Be sure to drain zucchini well to prevent soggy texture.
  • Sharp cheddar provides the most flavor but feel free to mix cheeses.
  • Add fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for extra depth.
  • This bread can be baked as muffins or mini loaves—adjust baking time accordingly.
  • Wrap and freeze slices for quick snacks or school lunches.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Bread, Side, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Cheesy Zucchini Bread, Savory Zucchini Quick Bread, Zucchini Squash Bread, Things To Bake With Zucchini, No Yeast Zucchini Bread

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